Ciconium Storksbill

erodium ciconium

Also known as: ["Storksbill","Herbe à la Cigogne"]

Family: Geraniaceae Genus: Erodium Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous perennial plant with distinctive long, narrow leaves and small, pinkish-purple flowers, native to Mediterranean regions.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Geraniales
Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Erodium
Botanical Name: Erodium ciconium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, alpine trough, or container with excellent drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–80°F (10–27°C); avoid extreme fluctuations.

Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Erodium ciconium may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Erodium ciconium can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Erodium ciconium may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Erodium ciconium if the soil is excessively moist, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Erodium ciconium is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Erodium ciconium is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Erodium ciconium is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Erodium ciconium be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Erodium ciconium attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.

Q: Is Erodium ciconium toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information on its toxicity to pets.

Quick Reference
Family: Geraniaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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